How to Keep Dental Implants Clean

Dental implants need to be kept clean on a daily basis to prevent infection and maintain its longevity. Cleaning a dental implant is different from cleaning a regular tooth because it does not have the same properties as a natural tooth does. Most dental implants are made of titanium which is attached to the bone where your missing tooth is in a process called osseointegration.

The implants consist of three parts namely the crown, the abutment and the implant itself with a body that looks like a screw. The abutment connects the implant and the crown. Implants don’t attach to your tooth bone in an instant since tissue fibers don’t stick to implants unlike the natural tooth. It is attached and stabilized through a suction mechanism. Dental implants cost a lot and in order to maintain its function and value, it needs regular cleaning with the help of a dental hygienist and with special cleaning tools designed just for implants.

Visit Your Dental Hygienist Regularly.

Having regular appointments with a Jacksonville dentist is key to fighting infection and loosening of the dental implant. The dental hygienist will help you in selecting the right instruments in cleaning your teeth which prevents the crown from being scratched as this is one cause of infection. If you’re feeling discomfort in your implants, you may consult your hygienist as there might be food particles blocking your implants.

Practice the Recommended Oral Hygiene

Extra care must be given to implants and the use of interproximal brushes and interdental products as recommended by your dental hygienist will keep your implant well maintained for the succeeding years. Sonic, electric and manual toothbrushes are all fine for cleaning your implant for as long as one brushes softly. Flossing daily in the proper way also prevents peri-implant disease which is an inflammation around the tooth that can loosen your implant. Water flossers are a good option.

Do a Self-check.

One way of detecting problems with your dental implant is paying attention to the color of your gums which are attached to the implant. If it’s pink then it’s a healthy indicator but if it’s read, chances are it is inflamed and needs to be check with your dental hygienist. Other signs like tooth discomfort and exposure of the implant or a scratched crown are also signs in which you should consult a hygienist.